More and more people are deciding to renovate a home in the Costa Blanca. The climate, the charm of Mediterranean villages and the opportunity to increase the value of an old property make this area very attractive. However, not everything is as simple as it looks. A poorly planned renovation can become a headache, with unexpected costs, delays or even legal problems.

In this article, we look at the most common mistakes when renovating a property in the Costa Blanca and, most importantly, how to avoid them with good planning and professional advice.

Mistake 1: Not checking the structure before buying

The excitement of finding a charming house can lead to buying without knowing its real condition. But in an old property, the structure is the first thing to assess.

What to check: walls, roof, floors and foundations.
Who should do it: an architect or a qualified surveyor.
Why it matters: detecting structural damage early prevents unexpected expenses and helps negotiate the purchase price.

Without a proper inspection, the renovation budget can quickly spiral out of control.

Mistake 2: Believing everything can be changed

Another common error when renovating a home in the Costa Blanca is assuming there are no limits. But in reality, many houses are in historic centres or areas with planning protection.

Facades cannot always be altered.
Height and volume restrictions may apply.
Traditional materials or features may need to be preserved.

Therefore, before starting, it is advisable to request an urban planning report from the local council to know exactly what is allowed.

Mistake 3: Underestimating the budget

Old properties often hide surprises: outdated wiring, damp issues, damaged beams… All of these bring extra costs.

Common mistake: calculating as if it were new-build.
Practical advice: always add 15–20% extra to the initial budget.
Result: with a realistic budget, the renovation can progress without unnecessary interruptions.

This approach provides peace of mind and avoids unpleasant shocks.

Mistake 4: Ignoring energy efficiency

Many traditional houses have no insulation and outdated heating or cooling systems. Ignoring energy efficiency makes the renovated home uncomfortable and expensive to run.

What to do when renovating in the Costa Blanca:

Add insulation to walls and roofs.
Replace old windows with double-glazed frames.
Install renewable energy systems, such as solar panels.

These improvements increase comfort, reduce energy bills and raise the property’s value.

Mistake 5: Starting work without licences

A serious error is assuming that, because it’s “only a renovation”, no licence is needed. In most cases, you will need a technical project signed by an architect and a major works licence.

Risk of skipping this: fines, work stoppages or even demolition orders.
Advantage of doing it right: the home is fully legalised and increases in value.

The process may sound complex, but if managed from the beginning it becomes straightforward.

Mistake 6: Not working with a local architect

Each municipality in the Costa Blanca has its own planning rules and particularities. A local architect knows these regulations and how to adapt to the Mediterranean climate.

Provides legal security: ensures the project complies with the rules.
Improves the design: makes the most of light, ventilation and integration with the landscape.
Prevents problems: their experience helps avoid delays and costly mistakes.

At La Quinta Fachada, we work in Jávea, Dénia, Moraira, Benissa and other towns, helping national and international clients transform their homes legally and efficiently.

Key tips for a successful renovation

If you are planning to renovate a home in the Costa Blanca, keep these tips in mind:

Carry out a feasibility study before buying or starting.
Request several detailed quotes and compare them.
Use materials resistant to the Mediterranean climate and sea air.
Coordinate architecture, interior design and landscaping from the start.
Be realistic about timeframes: a full renovation may take 8 to 12 months.

These steps make the project more predictable, efficient and rewarding.

Our opinion on renovating homes in the Costa Blanca

Renovating a home in the Costa Blanca is a unique opportunity to enjoy a house full of character in a privileged environment. However, it requires planning, a realistic budget and the guidance of professionals.

At La Quinta Fachada Architecture, we support our clients throughout the entire process: from the initial planning study and licence applications to the design and execution of the renovation. Our goal is to breathe new life into old houses, preserving their Mediterranean essence while adapting them to modern living.